Surface and Groundwater Protection

Tuls Dairies utilizes state-of-the-art engineering, design and technology to ensure surface and groundwater protection. Working with state and local officials and recognized industry experts, Tuls Dairies meets and exceeds stringent regulations. The Clean Water Act requires that Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) have zero discharge from any dairy operation. To meet those requirements, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) requires Tuls Dairies to follow a complex and comprehensive Water Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (WPDES) permitting process. Extensive design and comprehensive and regular monitoring and reporting procedures are implemented to ensure WPDES stipulations and environmental safeguards are met. Tuls Dairies protects surface and groundwater through the use of advanced technology and safety protocols and strict adherence to environmental regulations.

A wastewater treatment system makes sure there is zero wastewater discharge from the dairies to any surface waters or wetlands. The system recycles bedding sand and allows for the proper storage, treatment and transport of liquid and solid waste. All storage facilities and handling procedures are designed to withstand all anticipated loads — internal, external, hydrostatic uplift and concentrated surface and impact loads. The system can withstand and fully contain a 25 Yr-24 Hr runoff event.

As part of the WPDES permit process, Tuls Dairies develops and follows detailed Nutrient Management Plans (NMP) specifically designed for each operation. An NMP is a total planning tool that uses conservation practices to make sure, with pinpoint accuracy, that the exact right amount of manure is spread in the right place and at the right time. An NMP stipulates the amounts, timing, locations, distribution methods and other aspects related to land application of manure and process wastewater. The plan is designed to protect the quality of surface and groundwater. Think of an NMP as an equation where what the soil needs to grow crops equals the amount of fertilizer — or nutrients — that are added to the soil.

State regulations strictly monitor and control the use of water resources. Like many agricultural and commercial operations and municipalities, Tuls Dairies relies on high-capacity wells. These wells make sure cows have adequate water to drink and are kept cool and comfortable. All high-capacity wells must be approved by the WDNR prior to construction. Monitoring wells are installed and regular measurements are taken to safeguard impact on groundwater levels and quality.

Tuls Dairies has been successfully operating large-scale dairies in many states and for many years. Todd Tuls and his family have a proven track record of meeting and exceeding environmental regulations. Tuls Dairies’ state-of-the art technology, best practices and commitment to excellence make sure surface and groundwater are protected.